Gravel Lake Boat Launch

Only 12 trailer spots and they go quick on summer weekends. If you're not there by 8 AM on a Saturday, you're hunting for shoulder space. A couple extra kayak-friendly pull-off areas exist near the ramp, but trailer rigs are out of luck once it's full.

The ramp itself is decent for a single lane, but boaters keep powering their boats onto trailers instead of winching, and it's chewing up the launch area. You can feel the ruts forming at the waterline. A 14-foot deep V gets in and out fine, but give it a few more seasons of abuse and it'll be a different story.

The rocky shoreline near the ramp is snake territory, especially on warm days. They like to sun themselves on the rocks right where you'd be stepping to tie off or load gear. Not aggressive, but they'll surprise you if you're not looking down.

If you're paddling, this is one of the better small-lake launches in Van Buren County. Plenty of room to stage gear off to the side without blocking the single lane. The dock helps too — you can load up without getting knee-deep in muck.

Walleye, fat bluegill, bass, and perch all live here, and the clear water makes it a fun lake to figure out. But the recreational boaters buzz right past anchored fishermen without slowing down. Weekday mornings are your best bet for peace on the water.